I am in a "very similar boat" to yours, albeit 45 years toiling. Rewarded myself with a "guilty passion" retirement present, got myself a ND3 Manual(of course) in Aero Grey Metallic, took delivery on 23rd July this year. Been smiling since that day. ZOOM-ZOOM!
Lovely cars. I test drove an NC and really wanted to buy it, but I am too tall. Now I have bought a very different car, an X150 Jaguar XK convertible, much more of a touring car and of course heavier with a big V8, but also rigid and chuckable, flat cornering. Many smiles per mile
*still* a Revy 4-cylinder engine up front *still* a sneaky manual gearbox *still* rear wheel drive *still* a mechanical limited slip differential *still* just two seats *still* very compact dimensions and lightweight construction *still* one of the purest driving experiences going *Still* Dre...
Still a hairdressers car still driven by oap's still uneconomical 20mpg nightmare to run at 65mph at 4000 revs on the motorway still get beaten by an SLK
@@curtisducati how many hairdressers buy those? Any proofs for that? maybe in the UK oap's driving MX5's, but not everywhere else. wrong. it's 3k rpm at 75 mph and 6 liters per 100 km. Btw, no one is driving MX5 on the motorway. Lol, SLK is not even produced anymore. So, dude, you are still wrong.
Even the most focused, sportiest¹ SLK, @@curtisducati, was nothing like the MX5 was/is as an actual _sports car._ ¹ The SLK really never was a 'sports car'.
My father told me when i was 10 years in the late 1980s that it's way more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow. Sage advice, old man. I recently sold a 400 hp 1986 mustang for a mostly stock '92 Miata and dont regret it one bit...
I'm in the same boat. Everyone knows me for my built STI, but I bought a clapped out NA miata in secret and tbh I love the miata more than the STI I spent the last 5 years building
Driving becomes fun when you can extract full potential out of the car. When it comes to driving on public roads, there is no point in choosing a car with more than 250/300 hp because you'll never be able to use 100% of that power on the road. The Miata is compact, light, RWD and has a manual. The 190 hp version is just perfect
I’ve been lucky to own several “ serious “ drivers cars including 458 / 3 911’s / Aston etc , I recently got an ND2 Club ( only my ego had held me back ) honestly on a mountain road it’s by far the best “ road drivers car “ I’ve owned , I’m still finding it hard to believe It’s a masterpiece ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
@@razrramon2256 I'd say only an Elise would be more fun. The long geared Porsche or the automatic-only A110 would be quicker, but more fun? Probably not.
@@justinbennitt835 I can’t say about an Alpine as I’ve never driven one - I do have an Exige. The ND in stock form is less serious and does not exhibit the snappy handling tendency that is in the Lotus. On warm sunny backroads, the MX-5 is more fun to drive because it is just more fluid and enjoyable most of the time compared to my Exige.
@@PRS-dk4mz that's great to know. My current upgrade path from an MX5 ND2 RF (with BBR Super 220 and Eibach springs and anti-roll bars) is either a Lotus Evora S or Exige v6 but I think both of the Lotus are too hardcore (as I don't plan to start track driving).
I've been dailying a manual 1.5litre ND1 for the last 6 years and I have zero regrets. Reliable, fun and still draws looks after all these years. Cheap to maintain and repair if anything actually breaks. 6 ft 2 and I fit with no issues. Don't think I'll ever sell it.
I own a manual V8 Holden SSV ute. But this year bought a beautiful red NA MX5 1.6 and the MX5 is so much more fun, and you can enjoy it without encouraging the attention of the law enforcement. My happiest purchase of anything in my life.
I also own a manual V8 Holden SSV Ute (VE). I used to own an NB mx5, and honestly didn't love it. I span my mx5 on wet roads a few times, whereas the Holden does effortless powerslides. I suspect an open diff and cheap tyres limited the mx5. I'd love to try a later ND, with the benefit of LSD, stability control, and better tyres.
@@DumbAccordionTricks the SSV is a great cruiser, but when my girlfriend bought a Toyota 86 it gave me more smiles than the V8 ever did, so I took it a step further and bought the MX5. And now I think the MX5 is the very definition of a perfect drivers car. Unfortunately public roads can’t be enjoyed with having a powerful car, (I’ve just lost my license from accelerating for only 5 seconds in the SSV). So enjoy the roads in a car that feels fast, but isn’t. I was going to make my next purchase a lotus exige, but now I am in no rush at all to go buy it, as I doubt it would be as much fun as my mx5.
@@xkimopye I've got an Exige and still have my NA Miata. The Exige is great fun on track but as you said about your Holden, it's to fast to really enjoy it on the road. On the road I prefer my MX-5. On the track it's the Exige. 🙂
@@GTKlopfer yep sounds pretty spot on to me. I was hell bent on buying an Exige for my 40th birthday, but since getting the MX5 I’m in no rush at all. Will buy one some day as I love what they are all about, but I will do it when I’m ready to buy it.
I can say that about all the MX5s that I have owned. But there is still some specialness about the NAs that is not quite matched by the others in the series. It is a laugh out loud joy machine.
I recently purchased an NC and have to say that driving it is an absolute delight , so engaging and fun to drive , even after driving Boxsters for years I would have to say in many ways this is preferable, sure, it hasn’t got the sheer grunt but on Britain’s country roads it’s pretty much the perfect roadster …
The NC2 is larger inside, feels slightly more substantial which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, and most importantly it’s the last generation without electric steering! I absolutely love my NC2.
26 years ago a friend let me drive her new Miata. First year for the NB. It was my first time ever driving one, and I immediately fell in love with it. It sat there on my bucket list as I always made the "responsible" choice. Finally, in late '23 after a long period of unemployment that resulted in losing my previous car, I finally made the decision to get a Miata. I picked up a '15 Club and every time I walk up to it I think "damn that's a good looking car". Every time I get out of it I think "Damn, that's a fun car" and have to look back at it. Even if all I did was drive into town to get groceries. Truly, Miata Is Always The Answer.
Very well said👍🏻👍🏻 I’m gonna be giving my current car back to the bank cause of hard times but have a 94 NA Miata 5spd from family and man this thing is so fun to drive👍🏻👍🏻
I went from 00 NB to 08NC1 then 18 ND but to be honest it didn't lived up to expectations, then made the jump back to 2013 nc3 prhti have being in love with it ever since , people talk trash about the nc due to the first gen but oh boy they did it right in the couple next years
@@bryanrq27 I spend a lot of time on track with my NC and have also had days where I swap in and out of an ND 30th, and in most ways I prefer my NC. The ND’s electric steering is too light, the gearbox feels too fragile, and in general all the touch points feel overly assisted. I feel like I’m controlling an mx5 via computer simulator controls, not via an actual mechanical system. It isn’t really for me!
@@1061shrink1061 I have same worries about ND, additionaly the screen sticking from the dash is just ugly. Have NC for 13 years, and love it, but ND is no go, I'd rather buy the mint NA. Assists kill the car, maybe ND it is faster, but it ain't the goal.
bro. please dont hype up a good thing online. I'm begging you. Just cope with the jokes and enjoy your hidden gem thus allowing them to stay affordable until clean ones are gone because all the kids and racers have already gone through them
What a fantastic video, and spot on feedback. I'm on my fourth NA, my dad has a NC (bought to replace his NA after it was destroyed by a driver looking at her phone rather than the road). We both love the NA the most, but the NC is sooooo much better than its reputation. I would love to do a multi-thousand mile road trip in his NC, it would be the best Miata ever for that trip.
We ( my wife included ) have had every model since 1990 . I finally sold our 2014 ND3 2 litre last September and said goodbye to Mx5’s at 76! This April we added a new Homura 2.0 these do recuperate into a capacitor and are incredibly efficient. I just need to grow up 😂
I currently own an NC and am on the hunt for 1.8 NA. Waiting to see if Mazda will offer BRG in the final year of the ND and I'll then add that to my collection. My favorite car, I can't wait for the spring and summer when put the car on the road.
I’ve had an NC1 2.0 Sport from new. The optional Eibach springs and a good geometry setup transformed it. I fitted a set of Meister R CRD coilovers a couple of years ago which stepped it up to another level. I still love it 17 years on and can’t see any reason to change it.
Own a NC1 since 2011. No issues at all. I didn't really like the body roll, I prefer flat cornering. Lowered it, Eibach sway bars and it already came with H&R wheel spacers (I know that does not help, but it looks so much better). When you come home, you always think: why not took the long way home... Problem is: I'm 6'3 and I lowered the seat already by 1" A ND will be problematic, if it wasn't for my son's who love driving it, but are longer than me. My sister once lent me a BMW M6 convertible. That car is just boring compared to an MX5.
I disagree with the conclusion. If anything this proves the best mx-5 is the one you're able to and decided to own. There is no "missing out" or "better" amongst these 4. Like saying the west highland terrier is the best terrier.. absolute nonsense, unless you have one at home
Hate to disagree about the NB, but I think you missed some key points. Styling was vastly improved when the fog lamps became standard. The standard 5 speed gearbox is very notchy like the NA though I wish it either had an overdrive or made 5th gear an overdrive gear. Another key feature missed in your analysis is the WAY more practical trunk. AND it still has a spare tire. I've had my NB 22 years now and still have a smile on my face every time I'm behind the wheel!
Fifth gear in the five speed is an overdrive. Fifth gear ratio is 0.814:1. Of course with the 4.3 or 4.3 axle ratio, overall gearing is still very short.
@@mickeymichaels1298 From what I understand, the final gear ratio in each version, whether they have a 4, 5, or 6 speed transmission, is essentially the same. The top gear was never meant to be an overdrive.
@@reismith a four speed transmission in a Miata/MX5 only existed as an automatic in the NA & NB. The sixth gear ratio in the six speed box (0.843) is actually shorter than that of fifth in the five speed (0.814) but a taller axle ratio (3.9 vs 4.3 or 4.1) was used with the six speed, therefore the overall gearing in sixth was such that your RPM were reduced compared to the five speed at the same speed. Top speed in any version is in top gear. It wouldn't make much sense to have an extra gear just to reduce engine speed in a small, noisy convertible sports car with a tiny, high revving engine.
@@mickeymichaels1298 An overdrive gear would be nice for longer highway trips but makes little sense for a sports car used for backroad trips and track work. My father had a couple of MGs with electric overdrive which he swore by for commuting and highway trips. Got better gas mileage and, if used right, less wear and tear on the drive train. I was surprised when Mazda started offering the 6-speed but didn't give it a taller gear ratio at least in Touring trims. Happy with my buzzy 5-speed though.
Seem like beauty is the eye of the beholder. I find the the NB2 by far the best looking of MX-5s, both interior and exterior. It looks like less aggressive, classically elegant, cleaner shaped, downsized relative of Dodge Viper. With it's curves it looks great next to Supermarine Spitfire, shame I can no longer find the photo. NB1 is a bit cutesy, but the little wider lights and the sharper inner edge in NB2 leading to it balance it perfectly. I drove NA 1.6, NB1 1.8 Annie and decided on getting 1.8 5-speed NB2 skipping further trial on NC. Found out very low mileage Silver Blues.
Been dailying a 2017 RF for the last few months and I can honestly say it is the most enjoyable car I have ever driven. Had the privilege of driving Ferraris, McLarens, Porches, AMGs and so on, and they dont come close to the level of engagement an MX5 offers. This one is a keeper.
Owned a NC hardtop for years, absolutely loved it. It’s wide wheel arches made it look more masculine. And the practical folding handtop in winter can’t be understated.
We have a 2016 ND auto, I drive in ‘manual’ mode and I love it! The deal was I had to get the auto for the missus…..I ain’t too bad all things considered!
I’ve been lucky enough to own and drive a number of performance cars but the one thing I loved about my RF was even if you jumped into it in the worst mood possible, within minutes it’s just impossible not to start smiling not many cars can pull that trick. A fine car and one I miss hugely. Great review lads.
Love these comparisons guys. One thing I'd have mentioned is the NC1 was a bit of a rare miss for Mazda, it was too floaty in its suspension and the 2.0 felt weak. The NC2/3 are MUCH better cars and fixed basically every negative point with the first NC. Also the ND2/3 is almost the perfect MX5 but it's a shame about the electronic power steering. Still amazing cars though.
@@FenderUsa all good, I think the NC1 is a great little car. The NC2 and NC3 seem to be noticably more expensive on the used market; maybe because they're newer, maybe because they're better, maybe both. I agree that the NC1 wasn't exactly spectacular from the factory, but almost all of their woes can be rectified easily enough thanks to the extensive aftermarket. Cheers.
I own a 2008 NC1 in the USA (GT model with PRHT and 6MT). The suspension was the only complaint I had about it. A set of MeisterR CRD coilovers fixed that issue. So when people still put down the NC1 because of the stock suspension that Mazda put on the car, just remember that a relatively small amount of money can address this issue. The NC1 is the best driving car I have ever owned, and that includes an BMW 1995 E36 M3 (which I still own). The M3 is an awesome driving car, but the NC1 is just the right combination of size, power (I installed aftermarket Goodwin Racing (GWR) Max Power 1.8" header, GWR Helmholz midpipe and GWR SuperQ exhaust), handling (with the MeisterR CRDs) and grip (17x8" wheels with 235/40R17 tires). It is truly a fun drive every time, even if it's just a drive to the market.
Current NC1 owner here, I never understand when people complain about the poor dampening on old cars, as dampers are consumables, and cheap, throwing in a quality set of new dampers, or coil overs for that matter, is a no brainer, just like all regular maintenance. My NC is hands down way better than my old NA and NB in every way, and, a low km 2.5 basically bolts straight in, which is nice. As for the ND, whilst the engineering is impressive, I personally don't like the body lines, especially the rear end, way to modern, I personally prefer the more rounded shape of the NA, NB and NC. Talking about lines and personal preferences, I truly dislike the roof line on the NC PRHT, if a MX5 need a hard top, the original detachable hard top is the way to go, whilst logistically problematic for storage, a NA, NB or NC with a colour match hard top is a beautiful thing compared to the bulbous PRHT. I only wish I could find a good OEM hard top for my NC, my NB had a hard top which was great, simple to install, and I was lucky enough to have the storage for when it was not installed.
Late NA with the 1.8 and Torsen … Flying Miata springs, KYB adjustables and an aggressive street geometry (1.5- front 2 degrees- rear) … scalpel like turn in …absolute terror in the S.F. Bay Area canyons.
Got my ‘97 STO in 1998. Still daily it, Koni sport shocks, lowering springs and spacers, all else stock. This thing is a slot car and a total canyon terror weapon to every high power sports car that challenges me in my Santa Monica Mountains down here in LA. Just got a brand new GR86, however, my 27 year old Miata is just as quick around the bends when you know the roads. It’s so pure and fun, insanely quick momentum car!
Thanks for your excellent review on on all four generations of the MX-5 a very engaging watch on my favourite motor vehicle. I’ve owned an NC2 special edition since I bought it new in 2011 and still absolutely love it. Recently in June I traded my original ND2 and bought an ND3 and the difference between the two is very noticeable the ride, steering , handling and even the gearshift has been improved and I have to say the new ND has got to be the best MX5 so far. I hope when the NE comes along sometime in 2025 or 2026 it remains just as good as all the MX-5’s that preceded it have been. At the age of 71 I’m just so happy that I have two of these wonderful cars in my garage because in the world of two door sports cars what else would I need. Also my wife loves the NC2 and what do they say happy wife ……..!
Great video guys, and it should help get more people off the fence and into one of these gems. I've owned all four iterations (1990, 1999, 2007 & 2016) over the past 34 years and couldn't imagine my driving life without one. They are the ultimate therapy vehicle after a hard day at the office. My wife thinks I'm nuts, but I just put down a deposit on a 2024 Club w/ the Brembo/BBS option only for fear of the next gen being electrified. Don't do it Mazda!
Your credibility is up there, as you are obviously speaking from experience. Like you, my wife is quite dark about about it, when I recently bought a 2024 ND3 RF, but took the view - I only live once. I couldn't agree more with your last sentence and feel that there are still many of us "petrol heads" that love our ICE vehicles, especially when the MX-5 is still very sought after. MAZDA should keep making this icon and go electrify something else. ZOOM-ZOOM!
For a car as old as myself, the NA has always been my favorite car since I was a little boy, it still is. Finally owning one and driving it through thick and thin(in and out of the garage), I love every moment of it. The only problem I have is because I have gotten so used to that "Jinpa Ittai" feeling of this little Miata, when I have to drive any other car I never feel as in control and confident as driving the NA.
07 or 08 Honda Fit 5 speed manual. I've owned both years. Also have 95 NA manual. Remarkably similar. Not the same exactly, but they are both a hoot to drive. The Miata is a beauty. The Fit is a tiny minivan with cool Japanese pokemon looks. Great companion cars
I have a similar feeling problem with my old Mazda 626 tbh, that I would trashtalk those manual BMW's that are 10-15 year younger (that I've driven). This is a reason I've considered just buying an MX-5 for a daily driver since those Mazda cars have always felt the most 'in control' experiences for me, especially when having then manual. The only concern is the trunk-space, like If i need to get something bigger from a store and try to fit it in... but other than that - is there even a choice these days, if you just want a good manual driving experience?
I think the best thing about the older MX5's is the amount of aftermarket modifications availiable for them to really make them individual and an ongoing project which you dont necessarily get with the latest model. Also the fact you didnt use the MK2.5 that has better bracing, interior and a slightly better front design than the mk2 but used later versions of other models in the video was a bit strange. Great video nontheless and all MX5's are brilliant!
I bought my first MX5 in 2014. Had 5 NB and 2 NA. Still own one NB. It feels less and less underpowered. Average speeds on the road are decreasing due to traffic and radars. A MX5 is fun at legal speeds and I think that is a great (and rare) quality in a car.
Blows my mind, I've been in love with driving ever since I could see over the dash in my mom's car. I've done loads of amateur racing and owned loads of different cars....but I've never even driven an Miata/MX-5. Nothing against them, just never did. I think it's time to change that.
6'2", wide shoulders, over 300 pounds. I fit in the ND just fine. Completely blown away. Saw a reviewer who stood at 6'5 drive one, and it put things into perspective. Try it for yourself, don't let others decide for you.
Great video. ARIGATO from New Zealand! 🇳🇿 I have a 1.5 litre ND2 roadster manual (JDM) and just couldn't help going for a drive this morning after watching the video. It's a perfect driving machine. I love it!
Couple years ago I bought the third generation PRHT. It had just a few thousand miles on it. Loved it. Never had a problem with it. I love the hardtop. But then I got a Corvette C8 allocation and got rid of that and now I have a C8. Totally different cars. I miss my Miata MX 5
yeah, i think the NB does look better and a little more grown up than the NA, the NB2 even more so. but these things are subjective, so ig it varies from person to person
For some reason to me, a red nb looks fantastic but in the other colours it doesn’t look so great. The NA looks cute with the headlights up, but serious with headlights down.
I think the NB2 is the best looking of the bunch, just a shame there's no pop-ups. ND looks great, but in a more modern way. NC always reminds me of a bathtub - I think it's the curved line at the front of the bonnet (hood-USA). NA is the icon, however.
Proud owner of a 1992 NA purchase new in California since I was looking for a yellow one. Less than 60k miles on it, drives like a charm, excellent quality, low maintenance and tons of fun: what more should you ask ? Oh yes, it's now worth nearly the same as when I bought it ! 😀
i had 3 already as my only car and I couldn't be happier, it's a joy to drive, super sincere in every input you give it, extremely pretty on the outside, aging very well, doesn't cost much more than a city car to maintain. every should have one or drive one to experience what "fun driving" it's really like.
Loved this episode. We had a NB almost from new for some ten years and regret every day selling it. My wife's hip/knee probs = it had to go. Always drove top down and always had a massive smile on my old face. In fact looking at an ND ( with the steering committee's ok) at the mo.
For many people the NC is the answer because indeed it’s roomier😊.It’s well built has less rust issues than NA\NB.It’s also an all season car because you are better protected inside and the heating is brillant. Yes it smiles all the time yess.😊
I still have 1992 K reg, bought 32 years ago, 104k on the clock, mint condition and running as beautifully as the day it arrived! Every receipt and mot cert carefully filed! I love the mk 4 but still feel no need or desire to move on, a fantastic testimony to the perfect sports car!
My wife and I bought one a 1993 . We had it for about 20years a great little ball of fun it was . Reliable and economical. Had to sell it escaping Canada to Thailand. I miss that car .
2011 NC 2.0 litre. Love it. My 4th MX-5 and way better than the NB's I previously owned. Being 6'3" I find it very comfortable. I drove from Kent to Yorkshire with no discomfort. Fast, fun and affordable! 👌
I've got a 2017 RF Club. Put 13000+ miles on it since March. The only performance modification done was a mild set of sway bars. Super comfortable to me even on 500 mile trips. Always a blast to drive. Made some great memories with my boys in that car. Definitely my favorite car that I have owned.
American here. I absolutely love my NC-1. Because it is the least liked of the MX-5 variants I was able to get a super cheap reliable fun daily commuter and can say I have no regrets
Thanks guys for the great review. I started with a 91 and a few years later went into a 93LE. It’s been the best car ever and the wood Nandi steering wheel made it ever better. I’m driving it tomorrow to celebrate Autumn in Wisconsin at 71 years young.🍁
Just like the best mum is your own mum, and the best dog is your dog, the best MX-5 model is the one you own. Mazda have done a fantastic job with each model, and with each pro and con, there is no ‘bad’ MX-5 model.
Don't know what they did with the NB but I could never not have my knees in the dash. Had my NC and loved every minute of it. Absolutely despise the RF. Convertible all the way.
7:00 a lot of NBs had the 5 speed as well, FYI. the aisin 6 speed is less beloved for its shift than the mazda 5 speed, although the extra gear is nice on the motorway.
Over the years I've watched every single 'all 4 generations compared' that I can remember. And this is the best of the lot (excluding the extremely deep dive documentary of Savagegeese, which is just brilliant but not an apples to apples). Loved this video guys, thank you for your hefty investment in this UA-cam channel!
I drive 40.000 kms a year in my 1.5 ND2. It’s so much fun, very economical (even more than Mazda claims) and very easy to live with. I’m taking it to the south of France in a week, can’t wait.
Strange how opinions differ. I feel the NB is the beat looking of them all, but must add it has to be a later model NB as they look much more serious. Then with regards to the jump from NB to NC I agree it's a massive jump but here we have a very early NB with a very late NC, a late NB to early NC that difference is significantly smaller. Regardless, brilliant video and I rate Dan as ons of the best motoring journalists out there if not the best.
For some years we ran a 6 speed C- Gen with the MazdaSpeed swaybar upgrade. Ran it repeatedly on "Tail of the Dragon" and found it to be as pin-sharp as anything I've driven.I've been a motorcyclist since the mid-'60s and this car was a thrill. I was the support "Mutt" driver for my wife's traveling, Grammy-nom tour van, driving extensively though the Appalachian mountains where Bluegrass music draw large crowds. Your video brings back fond memories. You almost make me want to get another MX5.
I've had a spirited green NC 3.5 for 3 years and love it. Used to have an NB years ago and total appreciate your comments about how they are the same yet different. I wouldn't change it for anything, I simply love every minute in it and in bright green it is an attention seeker as well
NB is the best looking one personally to me, ALONG with ND. I'm tired of everything from X5 to Yaris being super agressive, so NB is a breath of fresh air, it's got some actual lines, whereas the NA is a bit nondescript looking. ND, though has got agressive styling, is at least agression done right.
MR2 pre dated the MX5 and a Mk1is still a great drive. The 3rd gen MR2 was always dismissed due to lacking a boot but it's an in-between car not as cute as MX5 but more practical than a lotus Elise and great fun to drive.
Currently NC2 , had NB1 years ago... The NC2 is an amazing capable and fun machine especially with the factory optioned recaro upgrade. It takes so little to turn a nice sweet handling standard MX5 in to a fantastic all around drivers machine, some suspension and engine tuning and these things are just about perfect.
Love this! I don't expect to ever part with my NC1, which was the surprising best option in 2019. But if that scalpel ever becomes a track car, the only choice would be between a 1.5 ND1 or 2L ND2. More power would be nice but something that revs like the OG is essential!
Here's my 3 pennyworth. When I was a lad back in 1972 I managed to scrape together enough dosh to trade in my horrid Beetle (my first car) for a Mk4 Triumph Spitfire. That was was like going from hell to heaven! A lightweight 2 seat open top sports car; I LOVED it! Then came marriage, a sensible job, kids etc and the Spit went, to be replaced by 'family cars', initially bought by me, then decades of company cars. But I always hankered after the simple 2 seat open sports car, and when the MX5 came out in 1989 I realised this was my dream car - a Spitfire with better handling, reliability, and practicality (i.e. it didn't leak). In 2004 circumstances enabled me to buy my first MX5. A new Mk2. I loved it, but then the Mk3 came out about 3 years later and I traded up to a foldy hard top one - a far better car. More refined, and a leap ahead on the Mk2. I kept that for 14 trouble free years before, in 2021, trading it for a an ND2 Mk4. I'd fallen in love with the looks of the Mk4, and fancied a change,, That was the best one yet! A soft top as the RF is only a targa top not a true open top car. In soul red of course - 2.0 with LSD and Bilsteins. That in turn is better than the Mk3, except for one thing which your review did not mention. The ND has an electric rack where the NC had a hydraulic one. And the NC's is better. Not by much, but it is slightly more 'talkative' than the ND's.
Had the NA and NB. Still got the NB - 1998. The beauty of both is their basicness and more fun because of that. It is good the brand has continued and the ND is cute but nothing will beat the first two.
We've had all 4 and loved them all. My wife and 3-year old daughter were in our first of 2 NB's when she was hit hard by an out of control car from behind when stationary. It slammed her into the back of the car in front. The NB, a bright yellow California, was completely totalled, and about 1' shorter at both ends. They were both unharmed and were able to just get out using the doors. MX-5's are not just great fun to drive, they are brilliantly engineered, well built and very safe. We bought another NB right after, then an NC, and finally an ND.
Had a 1990 NA, white, black interior. Identical to this one. Ive had a few cars that ive regretted giving up, this is most definitely one of those that i should have hung onto.
Well as you like the car I currently drive you have confirmed what I felt after a week of ownership.So good on the road with poise and power. Just makes driving such a pleasure!
I purchased an 2004 NB2 8 years ago with 38k miles on the odo, and have had more fun driving this than any other car I have ever owned. I’ve modified the car (suspension and brakes) to be functionally race ready to deal with commuting on the US west coast. I now have over 150k miles and would ONLY get rid of it if I were trading up to an ND. Quite possibly the best decision I’ve ever made was buying this car. I LOVE this car! I would wholeheartedly endorse finding a reliable shop to get your Miata/MX5 ‘corner balanced’. You’ll feel the difference.
Good reviews & commentary. I am one week into my 2014 NC PRHT and am loving it. At 6'3" it fits me perfectly, and the 6 speed manual is a joy. Fifty years ago I was thrashing about in a 1967 E-type. Now I feel like I shaved some years off, and that's understating it.
What a great video.The only one out of that lot I’ve never had is the NB which just never appealed to me. I’m currently with a ND2RF and it’s an absolute blast and is more than enough power to have fun with,more fun on a B road than a previously owned 987 Boxster which was frankly too much power to have genuine and more importantly safe fun in for my limited driving ability.The RF is a keeper too.Cracking cars.Thanks for the upload,much appreciated.
So many NB owners out there will disagree on their rude comments. For me it's still the best combination of old style engineering with more modern styling.
I've owned two NBs and currently have an ND. I've driven every generation many times. I cannot disagree more with the treatment the NB is getting here. 😀. Obviously it's all a matter of opinion but I love the styling and how it drives. The NB interior is also miles better than the NA. The NB is just an NA but better. My opinion of course.
I had several NA's and 2 NB's. I used both as every day cars covering 80 miles per day. I'm 63 years now but still in love with both of them and have one of each. A 90' NA and a 2000 NB. Every time i change from one in the other, i think this one is the better one. For highway use its the NB, i made some rubbers with more diameter on it, 195/60x15 to lower the rev level and fuel consumption.. with 75mph it revs in top gear a1000 less, than the NA with 195/50 x15, because of taller gearing in 6th and the larger tires. Beside the two, i have a Mercedes 320 SLK 6 speed manual, a much underrated car, almost same dimensions as the MX5 but a rocket against all of the MX5, making 251 km/h. There are also 3 real roadster in my Garage, a 1956 MGA 1500 and a 1994 Caterham 2.0 16V and a 1994 Morgan Plus 8 . Every car i have, is a small, open rearwheel driven sportscar and every car is the best in its own way. Only in winter, i drive a Mazda MX3 V6 Coupé as a everyday car.
I owned a VR Ltd Eunos for a few years, gorgeous little thing. Pure driving experience, a little underpowered at times but the flow through twisty roads was a joy. Mias it
I have two NBs and they are VERY different from each other. The first is a 5-speed '99 base model with open differential and power-nothing, and I love it for it's simplicity and how I have to work it to get anywhere. The second is an '04 Mazdaspeed, 6-speed and LSD, much more effortless power and I think still the stiffest Miata ever built. I have more fun in the city with the '99 5-speed but the MSM is the better highway car, especially after swapping the 4.10 gear ratio to 3.63. And that's the thing - buy a Miata, ANY Miata, and there's a worldwide community of people and companies who have done everything under the sun to these cars.
Love my 04 MSM except for the lower redline . The diff change is an excellent idea. Also still think the NA with its little chrome door handles and hideaway headlights is a very cool car. I tracked an NA in the 90s which I had stiffened up with heavier sway-bars, shock tower and rear suspension cross bracing. It was the best 6 years of my driving lift.
I have had an NC for many years and got an ND this year. I agree with your assessment - I still have the NC and when I go back to it I notice the weight and the space in the cabin. The big drawback with the ND is that there is nowhere to put anything in the cabin. Two of us manage quite well in the NC on trips, but with no glove box and stupid cup holders in the ND we really struggle.
I had a NC and loved it. It was my daily drive, but because of a disability, I had to have the Automatic, so I missed out on the famously "snicky" manual box, but both in manual and adaptive auto modes, the gear changes were crisp enough for enthusiastic driving. The adaptive auto gearbox was a marvel: if you were accelerating and braking hard on a winding road it would keep the revs up near the top end of the range, so manually overriding with stick or paddles was rarely needed! When you slowed down, the revs would drop to more economic levels. I agree about the seats, though: mine had leather seats, and you ended gripping the steering wheel to hold yourself in position, which wasn't conducive to good driving... I found the grip levels astonishing, and in contrast to what you said in your piece, I felt that the feedback it gave was brilliant, never ever feeling remote.
The one I like most is the one in my garage - a 2016 soft top. Most fun car I've ever owned. I bought it new and have no plans on letting it go any time soon.
Owned a ND2 in British Racing Green with tan interior, as my daily, loved it. Have been eyeing a ND4 for ages, but may wait to see what an ND5 has to offer.
Great review! Watched this car with interest throughout it's lifetime, so good to see a comprehensive back-to-back Unfortunately, I've never even actually driven one 😢.
As an Australian I love my 6 speed manual 1.8 litre NBFL. I drove it off the showroom floor in 2003 (upon trading in my 1990 NA), I I have never looked back. I have enjoyed every single drive over that 21 years, from a trip to the local supermarket, to the daily commute to work, to interstate trips of 1,600km (1,000 miles) each way. I have always enjoyed driving, but until my first MX-5, I didn’t know how much the car you drive can enhance that enjoyment. I should also mention that in 21 years I have never selected the wrong gear, so perhaps that says more about you than it does about me.
After owning all of them, the best, and the one that I bought back to have it as forever "family" convertible... is the NC; especially the first NC : the NC 3G edition 2l 160cv. It's finally the best looking one, the roomiest one, and the perfect convertible car that can make you smile as soon as the road goes free of traffic. The Mx5 ND is not pretty; it's a very good car, it's the best handling, but the styling is just not right on the interior (small and with too much parts and styling features from Mazda common cars), nor exterior (with touch of Maserati in the front, BMW Gina-Z4 on the side, and a Porsche bonnet...); The ND styling will not age well; by a lack of balance and elegance. My pick : The NC 2l original design from2006 with the soft-top, and not the face-lifted NC or the hard-tops that came after (NC RC and later the ND coupe).
Interesting comparisons, great roads. It is amazing what Mazda achieved over the years with this concept, thank god they committed to making these cars available at a reasonable price. I think a moderately fetled NC is the sweet spot. Really under rated platform for fast road and track
Got an ND3 in May.Its brilliant.Makes being a pensioner worth the 40+ years dicking about with metal in a factory finally worth while.
I am in a "very similar boat" to yours, albeit 45 years toiling. Rewarded myself with a "guilty passion" retirement present, got myself a ND3 Manual(of course) in Aero Grey Metallic, took delivery on 23rd July this year. Been smiling since that day. ZOOM-ZOOM!
Like the guys say the MX-5 is a global car, is so true; as I live in Perth Western Australia.
I’m glad you’re having a blast in them guys :)
Picking up my ND3 RF, which replaces my 2019 RF today, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how much it's improved.
Lovely cars. I test drove an NC and really wanted to buy it, but I am too tall.
Now I have bought a very different car, an X150 Jaguar XK convertible, much more of a touring car and of course heavier with a big V8, but also rigid and chuckable, flat cornering. Many smiles per mile
*still* a Revy 4-cylinder engine up front
*still* a sneaky manual gearbox
*still* rear wheel drive
*still* a mechanical limited slip differential
*still* just two seats
*still* very compact dimensions and lightweight construction
*still* one of the purest driving experiences going
*Still* Dre...
Those who know, know!
Still a hairdressers car
still driven by oap's
still uneconomical 20mpg nightmare to run at 65mph at 4000 revs on the motorway
still get beaten by an SLK
@@curtisducati
how many hairdressers buy those? Any proofs for that?
maybe in the UK oap's driving MX5's, but not everywhere else.
wrong. it's 3k rpm at 75 mph and 6 liters per 100 km. Btw, no one is driving MX5 on the motorway.
Lol, SLK is not even produced anymore.
So, dude, you are still wrong.
@@vvevvevvvv 😂
Even the most focused, sportiest¹ SLK, @@curtisducati, was nothing like the MX5 was/is as an actual _sports car._
¹ The SLK really never was a 'sports car'.
My father told me when i was 10 years in the late 1980s that it's way more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow.
Sage advice, old man.
I recently sold a 400 hp 1986 mustang for a mostly stock '92 Miata and dont regret it one bit...
I'm in the same boat. Everyone knows me for my built STI, but I bought a clapped out NA miata in secret and tbh I love the miata more than the STI I spent the last 5 years building
Driving becomes fun when you can extract full potential out of the car. When it comes to driving on public roads, there is no point in choosing a car with more than 250/300 hp because you'll never be able to use 100% of that power on the road. The Miata is compact, light, RWD and has a manual. The 190 hp version is just perfect
Was your dad James May? lol. He has been saying that for decades.
Yeah the mustang will get you pulled over and the Miata will be transparent to the police😝👍🏻
I’ve been lucky to own several “ serious “ drivers cars including 458 / 3 911’s / Aston etc ,
I recently got an ND2 Club ( only my ego had held me back ) honestly on a mountain road it’s by far the best “ road drivers car “ I’ve owned ,
I’m still finding it hard to believe
It’s a masterpiece ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lowered and alignment set up properly not much better probs only special caymans and Boxsters and possibly an alpine would be more fun arguably
@@razrramon2256 I had the Boxster Spyder with some Sharkwerks performance upgrades
ND2 club better for me
@@razrramon2256 I'd say only an Elise would be more fun. The long geared Porsche or the automatic-only A110 would be quicker, but more fun? Probably not.
@@justinbennitt835 I can’t say about an Alpine as I’ve never driven one - I do have an Exige. The ND in stock form is less serious and does not exhibit the snappy handling tendency that is in the Lotus. On warm sunny backroads, the MX-5 is more fun to drive because it is just more fluid and enjoyable most of the time compared to my Exige.
@@PRS-dk4mz that's great to know.
My current upgrade path from an MX5 ND2 RF (with BBR Super 220 and Eibach springs and anti-roll bars) is either a Lotus Evora S or Exige v6 but I think both of the Lotus are too hardcore (as I don't plan to start track driving).
I've been dailying a manual 1.5litre ND1 for the last 6 years and I have zero regrets. Reliable, fun and still draws looks after all these years. Cheap to maintain and repair if anything actually breaks. 6 ft 2 and I fit with no issues. Don't think I'll ever sell it.
Has the rear hub things gone yet
@@razrramon2256 replaced the rear wheel hubs a year ago actually due to bearing noise. Is that a common issue?
@@razrramon2256I actually replaced a rear wheel bearing on my ND1 too recently, is it a common fault?
You’d imagine how many looks I get in my NA!
Nice, I have the ND2 2.0, but I've heard the 1.5 captures the essence of the original car more
I still use my 2000 NB as a daily driver with 224,019 on the odometer. Still puts a smile on my face every time I'm in it.
I own a manual V8 Holden SSV ute. But this year bought a beautiful red NA MX5 1.6 and the MX5 is so much more fun, and you can enjoy it without encouraging the attention of the law enforcement. My happiest purchase of anything in my life.
I also own a manual V8 Holden SSV Ute (VE). I used to own an NB mx5, and honestly didn't love it. I span my mx5 on wet roads a few times, whereas the Holden does effortless powerslides. I suspect an open diff and cheap tyres limited the mx5. I'd love to try a later ND, with the benefit of LSD, stability control, and better tyres.
@@DumbAccordionTricks the SSV is a great cruiser, but when my girlfriend bought a Toyota 86 it gave me more smiles than the V8 ever did, so I took it a step further and bought the MX5. And now I think the MX5 is the very definition of a perfect drivers car. Unfortunately public roads can’t be enjoyed with having a powerful car, (I’ve just lost my license from accelerating for only 5 seconds in the SSV). So enjoy the roads in a car that feels fast, but isn’t. I was going to make my next purchase a lotus exige, but now I am in no rush at all to go buy it, as I doubt it would be as much fun as my mx5.
@@xkimopye I've got an Exige and still have my NA Miata. The Exige is great fun on track but as you said about your Holden, it's to fast to really enjoy it on the road. On the road I prefer my MX-5. On the track it's the Exige. 🙂
@@GTKlopfer yep sounds pretty spot on to me. I was hell bent on buying an Exige for my 40th birthday, but since getting the MX5 I’m in no rush at all. Will buy one some day as I love what they are all about, but I will do it when I’m ready to buy it.
I can say that about all the MX5s that I have owned. But there is still some specialness about the NAs that is not quite matched by the others in the series. It is a laugh out loud joy machine.
I recently purchased an NC and have to say that driving it is an absolute delight , so engaging and fun to drive , even after driving Boxsters for years I would have to say in many ways this is preferable, sure, it hasn’t got the sheer grunt but on Britain’s country roads it’s pretty much the perfect roadster …
At my height, it would be my pick too. Now to find a decent one!
The NC2 is larger inside, feels slightly more substantial which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, and most importantly it’s the last generation without electric steering! I absolutely love my NC2.
26 years ago a friend let me drive her new Miata. First year for the NB. It was my first time ever driving one, and I immediately fell in love with it. It sat there on my bucket list as I always made the "responsible" choice. Finally, in late '23 after a long period of unemployment that resulted in losing my previous car, I finally made the decision to get a Miata. I picked up a '15 Club and every time I walk up to it I think "damn that's a good looking car". Every time I get out of it I think "Damn, that's a fun car" and have to look back at it. Even if all I did was drive into town to get groceries.
Truly, Miata Is Always The Answer.
Very well said👍🏻👍🏻 I’m gonna be giving my current car back to the bank cause of hard times but have a 94 NA Miata 5spd from family and man this thing is so fun to drive👍🏻👍🏻
I went from 00 NB to 08NC1 then 18 ND but to be honest it didn't lived up to expectations, then made the jump back to 2013 nc3 prhti have being in love with it ever since , people talk trash about the nc due to the first gen but oh boy they did it right in the couple next years
@@bryanrq27 I spend a lot of time on track with my NC and have also had days where I swap in and out of an ND 30th, and in most ways I prefer my NC. The ND’s electric steering is too light, the gearbox feels too fragile, and in general all the touch points feel overly assisted. I feel like I’m controlling an mx5 via computer simulator controls, not via an actual mechanical system. It isn’t really for me!
@@1061shrink1061 I have same worries about ND, additionaly the screen sticking from the dash is just ugly. Have NC for 13 years, and love it, but ND is no go, I'd rather buy the mint NA. Assists kill the car, maybe ND it is faster, but it ain't the goal.
Agreed NC is the best
bro. please dont hype up a good thing online. I'm begging you. Just cope with the jokes and enjoy your hidden gem thus allowing them to stay affordable until clean ones are gone because all the kids and racers have already gone through them
Had my NA for 21 years now. It’s still my benchmark of how A car should should make you feel when you drive it
What a fantastic video, and spot on feedback. I'm on my fourth NA, my dad has a NC (bought to replace his NA after it was destroyed by a driver looking at her phone rather than the road). We both love the NA the most, but the NC is sooooo much better than its reputation. I would love to do a multi-thousand mile road trip in his NC, it would be the best Miata ever for that trip.
When I went looking for an MX-5, I looked hard at and drove them all. Found a 1999 NB, woman-owned never abused,
We ( my wife included ) have had every model since 1990 .
I finally sold our 2014 ND3 2 litre last September and said goodbye to Mx5’s at 76!
This April we added a new Homura 2.0 these do recuperate into a capacitor and are incredibly efficient.
I just need to grow up 😂
Do not ever think of growing up !
Fair play man, keep having fun!
I’m 80 and still Love rowing through the gears of my 90’ NA. I’ll die with this one, hopefully not IN IT!!!
I absolutely adore my MX5, I used to over look them but once I drove one I wanted one.
one of the best journalists. crystal clear communication
I currently own an NC and am on the hunt for 1.8 NA. Waiting to see if Mazda will offer BRG in the final year of the ND and I'll then add that to my collection. My favorite car, I can't wait for the spring and summer when put the car on the road.
Ok then.
Goes on a bit.
Had the absolute pleasure of driving a Rocketeer NA recently...what a glorious machine...ive been grinning for days.
I’ve had an NC1 2.0 Sport from new. The optional Eibach springs and a good geometry setup transformed it. I fitted a set of Meister R CRD coilovers a couple of years ago which stepped it up to another level. I still love it 17 years on and can’t see any reason to change it.
Own a NC1 since 2011. No issues at all. I didn't really like the body roll, I prefer flat cornering.
Lowered it, Eibach sway bars and it already came with H&R wheel spacers (I know that does not help, but it looks so much better). When you come home, you always think: why not took the long way home...
Problem is: I'm 6'3 and I lowered the seat already by 1"
A ND will be problematic, if it wasn't for my son's who love driving it, but are longer than me.
My sister once lent me a BMW M6 convertible. That car is just boring compared to an MX5.
What are the mm on the spacers? Thx@@asphalthedgehog6580
I disagree with the conclusion. If anything this proves the best mx-5 is the one you're able to and decided to own. There is no "missing out" or "better" amongst these 4. Like saying the west highland terrier is the best terrier.. absolute nonsense, unless you have one at home
I just bought my '24 ND3 RF last week and have been having the time of my life with it. What a magnificent little car.
I did over 8500 km in mine since I got it mid June 🥲
Just picked up a 99 In good condition. Couldn't be happier. It's a road legal go cart. Many smiles per gallon😊
Hate to disagree about the NB, but I think you missed some key points. Styling was vastly improved when the fog lamps became standard. The standard 5 speed gearbox is very notchy like the NA though I wish it either had an overdrive or made 5th gear an overdrive gear. Another key feature missed in your analysis is the WAY more practical trunk. AND it still has a spare tire. I've had my NB 22 years now and still have a smile on my face every time I'm behind the wheel!
I have had a NB 1 for 15 years love the way it drives and the boot is much better than the NA
Fifth gear in the five speed is an overdrive. Fifth gear ratio is 0.814:1. Of course with the 4.3 or 4.3 axle ratio, overall gearing is still very short.
@@mickeymichaels1298 From what I understand, the final gear ratio in each version, whether they have a 4, 5, or 6 speed transmission, is essentially the same. The top gear was never meant to be an overdrive.
@@reismith a four speed transmission in a Miata/MX5 only existed as an automatic in the NA & NB. The sixth gear ratio in the six speed box (0.843) is actually shorter than that of fifth in the five speed (0.814) but a taller axle ratio (3.9 vs 4.3 or 4.1) was used with the six speed, therefore the overall gearing in sixth was such that your RPM were reduced compared to the five speed at the same speed. Top speed in any version is in top gear. It wouldn't make much sense to have an extra gear just to reduce engine speed in a small, noisy convertible sports car with a tiny, high revving engine.
@@mickeymichaels1298 An overdrive gear would be nice for longer highway trips but makes little sense for a sports car used for backroad trips and track work. My father had a couple of MGs with electric overdrive which he swore by for commuting and highway trips. Got better gas mileage and, if used right, less wear and tear on the drive train. I was surprised when Mazda started offering the 6-speed but didn't give it a taller gear ratio at least in Touring trims. Happy with my buzzy 5-speed though.
Seem like beauty is the eye of the beholder. I find the the NB2 by far the best looking of MX-5s, both interior and exterior.
It looks like less aggressive, classically elegant, cleaner shaped, downsized relative of Dodge Viper. With it's curves it looks great next to Supermarine Spitfire, shame I can no longer find the photo.
NB1 is a bit cutesy, but the little wider lights and the sharper inner edge in NB2 leading to it balance it perfectly.
I drove NA 1.6, NB1 1.8 Annie and decided on getting 1.8 5-speed NB2 skipping further trial on NC. Found out very low mileage Silver Blues.
Yeah, NB doesn't look bad at all.. Just not as iconic as the NA. ND takes alot from the NB I feel.
NC was based on the RX-8 because mazda didn't have the funding for a new from scratch miata. That's why it's so much bigger and different.
As a 6ft 2 guy with long legs, I'm glad it happened 😀
@@CHEEKYlad_lol Me, too ! (6'3")
Been dailying a 2017 RF for the last few months and I can honestly say it is the most enjoyable car I have ever driven. Had the privilege of driving Ferraris, McLarens, Porches, AMGs and so on, and they dont come close to the level of engagement an MX5 offers. This one is a keeper.
Wow
Owned a NC hardtop for years, absolutely loved it. It’s wide wheel arches made it look more masculine. And the practical folding handtop in winter can’t be understated.
We have a 2016 ND auto, I drive in ‘manual’ mode and I love it! The deal was I had to get the auto for the missus…..I ain’t too bad all things considered!
I’ve been lucky enough to own and drive a number of performance cars but the one thing I loved about my RF was even if you jumped into it in the worst mood possible, within minutes it’s just impossible not to start smiling not many cars can pull that trick. A fine car and one I miss hugely. Great review lads.
Love these comparisons guys. One thing I'd have mentioned is the NC1 was a bit of a rare miss for Mazda, it was too floaty in its suspension and the 2.0 felt weak. The NC2/3 are MUCH better cars and fixed basically every negative point with the first NC. Also the ND2/3 is almost the perfect MX5 but it's a shame about the electronic power steering. Still amazing cars though.
Keep hating on the NC1. Keeps them cheaper, saves money for suspension mods. 😅
@@button-jeff no hate at all
@@FenderUsa all good, I think the NC1 is a great little car. The NC2 and NC3 seem to be noticably more expensive on the used market; maybe because they're newer, maybe because they're better, maybe both. I agree that the NC1 wasn't exactly spectacular from the factory, but almost all of their woes can be rectified easily enough thanks to the extensive aftermarket. Cheers.
I own a 2008 NC1 in the USA (GT model with PRHT and 6MT). The suspension was the only complaint I had about it. A set of MeisterR CRD coilovers fixed that issue. So when people still put down the NC1 because of the stock suspension that Mazda put on the car, just remember that a relatively small amount of money can address this issue. The NC1 is the best driving car I have ever owned, and that includes an BMW 1995 E36 M3 (which I still own). The M3 is an awesome driving car, but the NC1 is just the right combination of size, power (I installed aftermarket Goodwin Racing (GWR) Max Power 1.8" header, GWR Helmholz midpipe and GWR SuperQ exhaust), handling (with the MeisterR CRDs) and grip (17x8" wheels with 235/40R17 tires). It is truly a fun drive every time, even if it's just a drive to the market.
Current NC1 owner here, I never understand when people complain about the poor dampening on old cars, as dampers are consumables, and cheap, throwing in a quality set of new dampers, or coil overs for that matter, is a no brainer, just like all regular maintenance.
My NC is hands down way better than my old NA and NB in every way, and, a low km 2.5 basically bolts straight in, which is nice.
As for the ND, whilst the engineering is impressive, I personally don't like the body lines, especially the rear end, way to modern, I personally prefer the more rounded shape of the NA, NB and NC.
Talking about lines and personal preferences, I truly dislike the roof line on the NC PRHT, if a MX5 need a hard top, the original detachable hard top is the way to go, whilst logistically problematic for storage, a NA, NB or NC with a colour match hard top is a beautiful thing compared to the bulbous PRHT.
I only wish I could find a good OEM hard top for my NC, my NB had a hard top which was great, simple to install, and I was lucky enough to have the storage for when it was not installed.
Still driving my '93 I bought new in '93. Still love driving it.
Late NA with the 1.8 and Torsen … Flying Miata springs, KYB adjustables and an aggressive street geometry (1.5- front 2 degrees- rear) … scalpel like turn in …absolute terror in the S.F. Bay Area canyons.
"terror"
Got my ‘97 STO in 1998. Still daily it, Koni sport shocks, lowering springs and spacers, all else stock. This thing is a slot car and a total canyon terror weapon to every high power sports car that challenges me in my Santa Monica Mountains down here in LA. Just got a brand new GR86, however, my 27 year old Miata is just as quick around the bends when you know the roads. It’s so pure and fun, insanely quick momentum car!
Thanks for your excellent review on on all four generations of the MX-5 a very engaging watch on my favourite motor vehicle.
I’ve owned an NC2 special edition since I bought it new in 2011 and still absolutely love it. Recently in June I traded my original ND2 and bought an ND3 and the difference between the two is very noticeable the ride, steering , handling and even the gearshift has been improved and I have to say the new ND has got to be the best MX5 so far.
I hope when the NE comes along sometime in 2025 or 2026 it remains just as good as all the MX-5’s that preceded it have been.
At the age of 71 I’m just so happy that I have two of these wonderful cars in my garage because in the world of two door sports cars what else would I need. Also my wife loves the NC2 and what do they say happy wife ……..!
Great video guys, and it should help get more people off the fence and into one of these gems. I've owned all four iterations (1990, 1999, 2007 & 2016) over the past 34 years and couldn't imagine my driving life without one. They are the ultimate therapy vehicle after a hard day at the office. My wife thinks I'm nuts, but I just put down a deposit on a 2024 Club w/ the Brembo/BBS option only for fear of the next gen being electrified. Don't do it Mazda!
Your credibility is up there, as you are obviously speaking from experience. Like you, my wife is quite dark about about it, when I recently bought a 2024 ND3 RF, but took the view - I only live once. I couldn't agree more with your last sentence and feel that there are still many of us "petrol heads" that love our ICE vehicles, especially when the MX-5 is still very sought after. MAZDA should keep making this icon and go electrify something else. ZOOM-ZOOM!
For a car as old as myself, the NA has always been my favorite car since I was a little boy, it still is. Finally owning one and driving it through thick and thin(in and out of the garage), I love every moment of it. The only problem I have is because I have gotten so used to that "Jinpa Ittai" feeling of this little Miata, when I have to drive any other car I never feel as in control and confident as driving the NA.
07 or 08 Honda Fit 5 speed manual. I've owned both years. Also have 95 NA manual. Remarkably similar. Not the same exactly, but they are both a hoot to drive. The Miata is a beauty. The Fit is a tiny minivan with cool Japanese pokemon looks. Great companion cars
I have a similar feeling problem with my old Mazda 626 tbh, that I would trashtalk those manual BMW's that are 10-15 year younger (that I've driven). This is a reason I've considered just buying an MX-5 for a daily driver since those Mazda cars have always felt the most 'in control' experiences for me, especially when having then manual. The only concern is the trunk-space, like If i need to get something bigger from a store and try to fit it in... but other than that - is there even a choice these days, if you just want a good manual driving experience?
I think the best thing about the older MX5's is the amount of aftermarket modifications availiable for them to really make them individual and an ongoing project which you dont necessarily get with the latest model. Also the fact you didnt use the MK2.5 that has better bracing, interior and a slightly better front design than the mk2 but used later versions of other models in the video was a bit strange. Great video nontheless and all MX5's are brilliant!
Also most of them came with 5spd, which is the same as in the NA and much better than the 6spd
I bought my first MX5 in 2014. Had 5 NB and 2 NA. Still own one NB. It feels less and less underpowered. Average speeds on the road are decreasing due to traffic and radars. A MX5 is fun at legal speeds and I think that is a great (and rare) quality in a car.
I drove a 01 NB1 1.8 6-speed a lot back then. Weak, slow, high consumption (perfectly maintained, highest grade synthetic oil). No, just no.
@@PFinkoloTL87 *An 01 1.8 6 speed is an NB2, not NB1.
Blows my mind, I've been in love with driving ever since I could see over the dash in my mom's car. I've done loads of amateur racing and owned loads of different cars....but I've never even driven an Miata/MX-5. Nothing against them, just never did. I think it's time to change that.
6'2", wide shoulders, over 300 pounds. I fit in the ND just fine. Completely blown away. Saw a reviewer who stood at 6'5 drive one, and it put things into perspective. Try it for yourself, don't let others decide for you.
Great video.
ARIGATO from New Zealand! 🇳🇿
I have a 1.5 litre ND2 roadster manual (JDM) and just couldn't help going for a drive this morning after watching the video. It's a perfect driving machine. I love it!
I've grown to really like the look of the NB. Beautiful lines, like the FD RX7.
Couple years ago I bought the third generation PRHT. It had just a few thousand miles on it. Loved it. Never had a problem with it. I love the hardtop. But then I got a Corvette C8 allocation and got rid of that and now I have a C8. Totally different cars. I miss my Miata MX 5
Just picked up a NB a few days ago - but the NA looks 'cuter' IMHO, the smile and the pop ups make it. Always preferred the NB even if I love pop-ups
yeah, i think the NB does look better and a little more grown up than the NA, the NB2 even more so. but these things are subjective, so ig it varies from person to person
For some reason to me, a red nb looks fantastic but in the other colours it doesn’t look so great. The NA looks cute with the headlights up, but serious with headlights down.
@@xkimopye agreed. And a NA with sleepy eyes looks a bit like a maniac, a friend got one
I think the NB2 is the best looking of the bunch, just a shame there's no pop-ups. ND looks great, but in a more modern way. NC always reminds me of a bathtub - I think it's the curved line at the front of the bonnet (hood-USA). NA is the icon, however.
Proud owner of a 1992 NA purchase new in California since I was looking for a yellow one. Less than 60k miles on it, drives like a charm, excellent quality, low maintenance and tons of fun: what more should you ask ? Oh yes, it's now worth nearly the same as when I bought it ! 😀
i had 3 already as my only car and I couldn't be happier, it's a joy to drive, super sincere in every input you give it, extremely pretty on the outside, aging very well, doesn't cost much more than a city car to maintain.
every should have one or drive one to experience what "fun driving" it's really like.
Love my 2016 ND. It’s given me 5 years of huge driving pleasure and I will sorely miss it when I have to let it go.
Loved this episode. We had a NB almost from new for some ten years and regret every day selling it. My wife's hip/knee probs = it had to go. Always drove top down and always had a massive smile on my old face. In fact looking at an ND ( with the steering committee's ok) at the mo.
For many people the NC is the answer because indeed it’s roomier😊.It’s well built has less rust issues than NA\NB.It’s also an all season car because you are better protected inside and the heating is brillant. Yes it smiles all the time yess.😊
Better protected by the hard top you mean?
I still have 1992 K reg, bought 32 years ago, 104k on the clock, mint condition and running as beautifully as the day it arrived! Every receipt and mot cert carefully filed! I love the mk 4 but still feel no need or desire to move on, a fantastic testimony to the perfect sports car!
My wife and I bought one a 1993 . We had it for about 20years a great little ball of fun it was . Reliable and economical. Had to sell it escaping Canada to Thailand. I miss that car .
2011 NC 2.0 litre. Love it. My 4th MX-5 and way better than the NB's I previously owned.
Being 6'3" I find it very comfortable.
I drove from Kent to Yorkshire with no discomfort.
Fast, fun and affordable! 👌
I've got a 2017 RF Club. Put 13000+ miles on it since March. The only performance modification done was a mild set of sway bars. Super comfortable to me even on 500 mile trips. Always a blast to drive. Made some great memories with my boys in that car. Definitely my favorite car that I have owned.
Just bought an NC 3.5... Loving it so far! Fantastic value for money. Looking forward to getting many years out of it 👀.
American here. I absolutely love my NC-1. Because it is the least liked of the MX-5 variants I was able to get a super cheap reliable fun daily commuter and can say I have no regrets
Thanks guys for the great review. I started with a 91 and a few years later went into a 93LE. It’s been the best car ever and the wood Nandi steering wheel made it ever better. I’m driving it tomorrow to celebrate Autumn in Wisconsin at 71 years young.🍁
Great roundup with good, non-irritating presenters that can speak properly which is a rarity nowadays. Well done. Subscribed.
Just like the best mum is your own mum, and the best dog is your dog, the best MX-5 model is the one you own. Mazda have done a fantastic job with each model, and with each pro and con, there is no ‘bad’ MX-5 model.
I agree with the video remarks. Once you own an MX-5, you learn how to identify cars that can give feedback and engagement at civil speeds.
Don't know what they did with the NB but I could never not have my knees in the dash. Had my NC and loved every minute of it. Absolutely despise the RF. Convertible all the way.
I rescued a 1989 MX5 from the track 5 years back. Made it mine, it's light and fun and part of our lives. Kia ora from New Zealand.
7:00 a lot of NBs had the 5 speed as well, FYI. the aisin 6 speed is less beloved for its shift than the mazda 5 speed, although the extra gear is nice on the motorway.
Over the years I've watched every single 'all 4 generations compared' that I can remember. And this is the best of the lot (excluding the extremely deep dive documentary of Savagegeese, which is just brilliant but not an apples to apples).
Loved this video guys, thank you for your hefty investment in this UA-cam channel!
I drive 40.000 kms a year in my 1.5 ND2. It’s so much fun, very economical (even more than Mazda claims) and very easy to live with.
I’m taking it to the south of France in a week, can’t wait.
Does it seem durable? Like it could take a lot of kms and endure?
@@totuudentorvi7781yes, they have very few problems. Just treat it right
NA with decent tyres will match any car point-to-point. As a biker, the fun is in the corners and it’s all about ‘flow’.
It will not touch a r53/56 mini s. At all
Strange how opinions differ.
I feel the NB is the beat looking of them all, but must add it has to be a later model NB as they look much more serious.
Then with regards to the jump from NB to NC I agree it's a massive jump but here we have a very early NB with a very late NC, a late NB to early NC that difference is significantly smaller.
Regardless, brilliant video and I rate Dan as ons of the best motoring journalists out there if not the best.
Absolutely agree with you
For some years we ran a 6 speed C- Gen with the MazdaSpeed swaybar upgrade. Ran it repeatedly on "Tail of the Dragon" and found it to be as pin-sharp as anything I've driven.I've been a motorcyclist since the mid-'60s and this car was a thrill. I was the support "Mutt" driver for my wife's traveling, Grammy-nom tour van, driving extensively though the Appalachian mountains where Bluegrass music draw large crowds. Your video brings back fond memories. You almost make me want to get another MX5.
I've had a spirited green NC 3.5 for 3 years and love it. Used to have an NB years ago and total appreciate your comments about how they are the same yet different. I wouldn't change it for anything, I simply love every minute in it and in bright green it is an attention seeker as well
NB is the best looking one personally to me, ALONG with ND. I'm tired of everything from X5 to Yaris being super agressive, so NB is a breath of fresh air, it's got some actual lines, whereas the NA is a bit nondescript looking. ND, though has got agressive styling, is at least agression done right.
MR2 pre dated the MX5 and a Mk1is still a great drive. The 3rd gen MR2 was always dismissed due to lacking a boot but it's an in-between car not as cute as MX5 but more practical than a lotus Elise and great fun to drive.
Owned a 1993 gen 1 1.8 perfect roadster my first new car. I had so.much fun in it amazing car held onto it for 7 years. Brilliant
Currently NC2 , had NB1 years ago... The NC2 is an amazing capable and fun machine especially with the factory optioned recaro upgrade. It takes so little to turn a nice sweet handling standard MX5 in to a fantastic all around drivers machine, some suspension and engine tuning and these things are just about perfect.
Love this! I don't expect to ever part with my NC1, which was the surprising best option in 2019. But if that scalpel ever becomes a track car, the only choice would be between a 1.5 ND1 or 2L ND2. More power would be nice but something that revs like the OG is essential!
Here's my 3 pennyworth. When I was a lad back in 1972 I managed to scrape together enough dosh to trade in my horrid Beetle (my first car) for a Mk4 Triumph Spitfire. That was was like going from hell to heaven! A lightweight 2 seat open top sports car; I LOVED it!
Then came marriage, a sensible job, kids etc and the Spit went, to be replaced by 'family cars', initially bought by me, then decades of company cars. But I always hankered after the simple 2 seat open sports car, and when the MX5 came out in 1989 I realised this was my dream car - a Spitfire with better handling, reliability, and practicality (i.e. it didn't leak).
In 2004 circumstances enabled me to buy my first MX5. A new Mk2. I loved it, but then the Mk3 came out about 3 years later and I traded up to a foldy hard top one - a far better car. More refined, and a leap ahead on the Mk2.
I kept that for 14 trouble free years before, in 2021, trading it for a an ND2 Mk4. I'd fallen in love with the looks of the Mk4, and fancied a change,,
That was the best one yet! A soft top as the RF is only a targa top not a true open top car. In soul red of course - 2.0 with LSD and Bilsteins.
That in turn is better than the Mk3, except for one thing which your review did not mention.
The ND has an electric rack where the NC had a hydraulic one. And the NC's is better. Not by much, but it is slightly more 'talkative' than the ND's.
Had the NA and NB. Still got the NB - 1998. The beauty of both is their basicness and more fun because of that. It is good the brand has continued and the ND is cute but nothing will beat the first two.
Owned one in the early '00s; it was like driving a go-cart with an attitude problem, fabulous fun!
We've had all 4 and loved them all. My wife and 3-year old daughter were in our first of 2 NB's when she was hit hard by an out of control car from behind when stationary. It slammed her into the back of the car in front. The NB, a bright yellow California, was completely totalled, and about 1' shorter at both ends. They were both unharmed and were able to just get out using the doors. MX-5's are not just great fun to drive, they are brilliantly engineered, well built and very safe. We bought another NB right after, then an NC, and finally an ND.
I bought my NA in October of 1998 and I am still loving it. It has 263,000 miles on it.
I got the 2010 Miata MX-5 six speed manual and I love it 😍 it’s so much fun to drive with the hard top down it’s just Amazing!!
Had a 1990 NA, white, black interior. Identical to this one. Ive had a few cars that ive regretted giving up, this is most definitely one of those that i should have hung onto.
I have a 08 Niseko…. The perfect transport home after driving an arctic all day, love it, will never sell it 👍
Well as you like the car I currently drive you have confirmed what I felt after a week of ownership.So good on the road with poise and power. Just makes driving such a pleasure!
I purchased an 2004 NB2 8 years ago with 38k miles on the odo, and have had more fun driving this than any other car I have ever owned. I’ve modified the car (suspension and brakes) to be functionally race ready to deal with commuting on the US west coast.
I now have over 150k miles and would ONLY get rid of it if I were trading up to an ND. Quite possibly the best decision I’ve ever made was buying this car.
I LOVE this car! I would wholeheartedly endorse finding a reliable shop to get your Miata/MX5 ‘corner balanced’. You’ll feel the difference.
Good reviews & commentary. I am one week into my 2014 NC PRHT and am loving it. At 6'3" it fits me perfectly, and the 6 speed manual is a joy. Fifty years ago I was thrashing about in a 1967 E-type. Now I feel like I shaved some years off, and that's understating it.
I have an early 1990 MX5. Absolutely love it. I also drove the new generation and it was fantastic as well.
What a great video.The only one out of that lot I’ve never had is the NB which just never appealed to me.
I’m currently with a ND2RF and it’s an absolute blast and is more than enough power to have fun with,more fun on a B road than a previously owned 987 Boxster which was frankly too much power to have genuine and more importantly safe fun in for my limited driving ability.The RF is a keeper too.Cracking cars.Thanks for the upload,much appreciated.
So many NB owners out there will disagree on their rude comments. For me it's still the best combination of old style engineering with more modern styling.
Correct, of course the NB is the best!
I've owned two NBs and currently have an ND. I've driven every generation many times. I cannot disagree more with the treatment the NB is getting here. 😀. Obviously it's all a matter of opinion but I love the styling and how it drives. The NB interior is also miles better than the NA. The NB is just an NA but better. My opinion of course.
I had several NA's and 2 NB's. I used both as every day cars covering 80 miles per day. I'm 63 years now but still in love with both of them and have one of each. A 90' NA and a 2000 NB. Every time i change from one in the other, i think this one is the better one. For highway use its the NB, i made some rubbers with more diameter on it, 195/60x15 to lower the rev level and fuel consumption.. with 75mph it revs in top gear a1000 less, than the NA with 195/50 x15, because of taller gearing in 6th and the larger tires. Beside the two, i have a Mercedes 320 SLK 6 speed manual, a much underrated car, almost same dimensions as the MX5 but a rocket against all of the MX5, making 251 km/h. There are also 3 real roadster in my Garage, a 1956 MGA 1500 and a 1994 Caterham 2.0 16V and a 1994 Morgan Plus 8 . Every car i have, is a small, open rearwheel driven sportscar and every car is the best in its own way.
Only in winter, i drive a Mazda MX3 V6 Coupé as a everyday car.
I owned a VR Ltd Eunos for a few years, gorgeous little thing. Pure driving experience, a little underpowered at times but the flow through twisty roads was a joy. Mias it
I have two NBs and they are VERY different from each other. The first is a 5-speed '99 base model with open differential and power-nothing, and I love it for it's simplicity and how I have to work it to get anywhere. The second is an '04 Mazdaspeed, 6-speed and LSD, much more effortless power and I think still the stiffest Miata ever built. I have more fun in the city with the '99 5-speed but the MSM is the better highway car, especially after swapping the 4.10 gear ratio to 3.63. And that's the thing - buy a Miata, ANY Miata, and there's a worldwide community of people and companies who have done everything under the sun to these cars.
Love my 04 MSM except for the lower redline . The diff change is an excellent idea. Also still think the NA with its little chrome door handles and hideaway headlights is a very cool car. I tracked an NA in the 90s which I had stiffened up with heavier sway-bars, shock tower and rear suspension cross bracing. It was the best 6 years of my driving lift.
I have had an NC for many years and got an ND this year. I agree with your assessment - I still have the NC and when I go back to it I notice the weight and the space in the cabin. The big drawback with the ND is that there is nowhere to put anything in the cabin. Two of us manage quite well in the NC on trips, but with no glove box and stupid cup holders in the ND we really struggle.
Having my NB VVTi restored , cant wait to get it back
I had a NC and loved it. It was my daily drive, but because of a disability, I had to have the Automatic, so I missed out on the famously "snicky" manual box, but both in manual and adaptive auto modes, the gear changes were crisp enough for enthusiastic driving. The adaptive auto gearbox was a marvel: if you were accelerating and braking hard on a winding road it would keep the revs up near the top end of the range, so manually overriding with stick or paddles was rarely needed! When you slowed down, the revs would drop to more economic levels. I agree about the seats, though: mine had leather seats, and you ended gripping the steering wheel to hold yourself in position, which wasn't conducive to good driving... I found the grip levels astonishing, and in contrast to what you said in your piece, I felt that the feedback it gave was brilliant, never ever feeling remote.
The one I like most is the one in my garage - a 2016 soft top. Most fun car I've ever owned. I bought it new and have no plans on letting it go any time soon.
Owned a ND2 in British Racing Green with tan interior, as my daily, loved it. Have been eyeing a ND4 for ages, but may wait to see what an ND5 has to offer.
There are maybe 4 videos I’ve found on UA-cam that reviews the generations of Miata. This is probably the best of them. Great job!
Great review! Watched this car with interest throughout it's lifetime, so good to see a comprehensive back-to-back Unfortunately, I've never even actually driven one 😢.
As an Australian I love my 6 speed manual 1.8 litre NBFL. I drove it off the showroom floor in 2003 (upon trading in my 1990 NA), I I have never looked back. I have enjoyed every single drive over that 21 years, from a trip to the local supermarket, to the daily commute to work, to interstate trips of 1,600km (1,000 miles) each way. I have always enjoyed driving, but until my first MX-5, I didn’t know how much the car you drive can enhance that enjoyment.
I should also mention that in 21 years I have never selected the wrong gear, so perhaps that says more about you than it does about me.
The MX5 Miata is by far the best sports and fun car money can buy!
Got 2 NBs and I prefer them to the others, I am afraid to say..nah, not afraid. I love the curves on it.
After owning all of them, the best, and the one that I bought back to have it as forever "family" convertible... is the NC; especially the first NC : the NC 3G edition 2l 160cv. It's finally the best looking one, the roomiest one, and the perfect convertible car that can make you smile as soon as the road goes free of traffic. The Mx5 ND is not pretty; it's a very good car, it's the best handling, but the styling is just not right on the interior (small and with too much parts and styling features from Mazda common cars), nor exterior (with touch of Maserati in the front, BMW Gina-Z4 on the side, and a Porsche bonnet...); The ND styling will not age well; by a lack of balance and elegance. My pick : The NC 2l original design from2006 with the soft-top, and not the face-lifted NC or the hard-tops that came after (NC RC and later the ND coupe).
Interesting comparisons, great roads. It is amazing what Mazda achieved over the years with this concept, thank god they committed to making these cars available at a reasonable price.
I think a moderately fetled NC is the sweet spot. Really under rated platform for fast road and track